Raley’s Axing Artificial Flavors from Private Label Sodas

In a bid to advance its health-and-wellness stance, Raley’s Family of Fine Stores is eliminating certain private label soda flavors containing high-fructose corn syrup and artificial colors and flavors, including in its diet varieties.

"This is a bold first step toward improving our private label options for our customers," said Kevin Curry, SVP of merchandising and supply chain at West Sacramento, Calf.-based Raley's. "Where we have control over our product lines, we want to offer products that reflect our ongoing vision to infuse life with health and happiness. Essentially, we want to make it easier for our customers to make healthier choices." 

Raley's has discontinued production of private label soda with high-fructose corn syrup and artificial colors and flavors, and will phase out remaining inventory over the next two weeks. All Raley’s private label soda with high-fructose corn syrup and artificial colors and flavors will be out of stock by Aug. 1.

The move to ax artificial flavors from its private label soft drinks follows on the heels of the grocer’s elimination of tobacco products in 2015.

Privately owned, family-operated Raley's operates 121 stores in northern California and Nevada under four banners: Raley’s Supermarkets, Bel Air Markets, Nob Hill Foods and Food Source.